Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Emotional meltdowns and outbursts can be costly.  This proved to be the case for Serena Williams at the US Open this week.  Her display of profanity, verbal abuse and threatening towards the baseline judge was the height of disrespect.  This form of behavior demonstrates a complete lack of emotional control.  In a game which demands exceptional skill, particularly at the iconic level which Serena Williams and her opponent Kim Clijsters of Belgium play, control of the body and mind is critical to stay at the top of the game.  This includes staying in control of your emotions and choosing your words carefully. 

Reputation is everything.  Being in the public eye demands professionalism at all times and outbursts such as this can be unforgiving.  When Serena Williams threatened the baseline judge, that was the differentiating factor that makes this outburst different.  This type of behavior is highly disrespectful to not only the judge, but to opponent Kim Clijsters, the fans, the US Open and the Women's Tennis Association.  It diminishes the prestige of the US Open.

To save face in this type of situation, professional and business etiquette demands a formal public apology.  Without it, Serena Williams' personal, professional and business brand image are at risk.